Tinotenda Hove – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday praised what he called the “remarkable success” of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), but for many Zimbabweans struggling with high prices, unemployment and failing public services, the celebration rings hollow.

Addressing the 389th Politburo session in Harare, Mnangagwa painted a picture of national progress that many citizens say they simply cannot recognise in their daily lives.

He claimed that the country had made “significant milestones across the economy and society,” insisting that unity within the Party and the nation had enabled Zimbabwe to remain resilient despite challenges. He added that the completion of NDS1 and the launch of NDS2 were “people-driven achievements.”

Yet for ordinary citizens grappling with stagnant wages, rising inflation and persistent shortages in public hospitals, such declarations feel disconnected from reality. Critics argue that the government continues to celebrate statistics while ignoring the lived experiences of millions.

Mnangagwa also paid tribute to Archbishop Paul Mwazha of the African Apostolic Church, recently declared a National Hero. He described Mwazha as “a pillar of unity and spiritual guidance,” a gesture many respect but which does little to ease Zimbabweans’ everyday struggles.

The President said this year’s 22nd National People’s Conference had “strengthened Party unity” and shaped the forthcoming 2026 National Budget. However, many citizens believe the ruling Party’s priorities remain inward-facing. While Mnangagwa spoke of the need for the Party to adapt to “ICTs and Artificial Intelligence” while upholding discipline and liberation values, people continue to question why technological advancement is emphasised when basic public services remain unreliable.

Mnangagwa further reported economic growth driven by agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and infrastructure, along with increased diaspora remittances. But he did not explain why, if growth is so strong, ordinary families still struggle to afford essential goods. Many Zimbabweans view the government’s growth claims as detached from the economic hardships they experience daily.

The President also praised engagements with Zambia and Mozambique under Bi-National Commissions, saying they foster “cooperation, integration and prosperity.” He warned against “counter revolutionaries,” a phrase often used to dismiss dissent and criticism.

Mnangagwa urged the Party to align its mobilisation efforts with NDS2 to “improve citizens’ quality of life.” Yet critics argue that the first national development strategy did little to materially change people’s lives, raising doubts over how the second will be any different.

While the President celebrates NDS1 as a triumph, many Zimbabweans insist there is very little to glorify. For citizens navigating daily hardship, the government’s self-praise only highlights the widening gap between official narratives and lived reality.